In 2022 alone, more than 32 million reports of suspected child sexual exploitation were reported by online platforms to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children’s CyberTipline, and that number is growing. Of those 32 million reports received, over 99.5% of them regarded incidents of suspected CSAM.  

In today’s digital age, the internet has provided countless opportunities for communication, education, and entertainment. However, it has also become a platform for heinous crimes such as child sexual abuse and exploitation. Recognizing the urgent need to address this issue, Netsweeper, a leader in content filtering, has joined forces with WeProtect Global Alliance to combat child sexual abuse and exploitation online and to create a safer digital environment for children worldwide. 

CSAM represents a dark and distressing reality that we must confront head-on. The internet provides anonymity and accessibility, making it an ideal platform for perpetrators to exploit vulnerable children. These crimes not only violate the rights and dignity of children but also cause long-lasting psychological and emotional damage. It is our collective responsibility to safeguard children from these atrocities and create a safe online environment for them to thrive. 

WeProtect Global Alliance is an international coalition of over 200 members comprising governments, technology companies, civil society organizations and intergovernmental organisations. Its primary objective is to eradicate child sexual abuse and exploitation online. As a member of WeProtect Global Alliance, Netsweeper actively collaborates with the Alliance, working towards their shared vision of creating a safe and secure digital environment for children.  

The Netsweeper Advantage 

Technology can be both a facilitator and a solution in combating child sexual abuse and exploitation online. Advanced content filtering, artificial intelligence, and algorithms can aid in the identification and removal of explicit material, reducing its availability and accessibility.  

As a renowned player in the field of content filtering and analytics, Netsweeper’s onGuard has cutting-edge technology that enables the identification and blocking of online content related to child sexual abuse, grooming, and exploitation. By employing a combination of advanced algorithms, AI, and human review, Netsweeper ensures the detection and removal of harmful material, protecting vulnerable users from exposure to such content. 

Collaborative Efforts 

Combating CSAM requires a collaborative approach involving governments, law enforcement agencies, technology companies, civil society organizations, educators, and parents. It is only through collective efforts that we can effectively tackle this issue. Cooperation between stakeholders leads to the development of innovative solutions, legislation, and policies that prioritize child protection and empower individuals to report and respond to instances of abuse. 

Collaboration with Law Enforcement 

Netsweeper and WeProtect Global Alliance collaborate closely with law enforcement agencies worldwide by sharing intelligence, expertise, and technology, they enhance the capabilities of law enforcement, enabling a more robust response to these crimes. 

Law enforcement agencies’ expertise, collaboration, and commitment are instrumental in protecting children, bringing offenders to justice, and creating a safer digital space for all. Empower these agencies is necessary to effectively combat child exploitation. 

Global Impact 

The combined efforts of Netsweeper and WeProtect Global Alliance have had a significant impact on the fight against CSAM. By leveraging their technological expertise, promoting awareness, and fostering collaboration, they are making substantial strides in protecting children from harm. However, we acknowledge that the battle is ongoing, and continuous adaptation and innovation are necessary to keep pace with emerging threats. 

Netsweeper and WeProtect Global Alliance are at the forefront of the fight against child sexual abuse and exploitation online. Our collaborative efforts, combining cutting-edge technology, education, and collaboration with law enforcement, are making a tangible difference in creating a safer digital environment for children worldwide. By raising awareness, implementing robust content filtering, and promoting responsible online behavior, we are paving the way for a brighter and safer future for children online. 

Check out our latest podcast From Pixels to Predators: The Battle Against Online Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation to hear how WeProtect Global Alliance is raising awareness and educating others on CSAM, and how we can contribute to their cause.